Black lacquered model signal lantern with gold linework, round glass face, brass number bar, and red floral panel on a blue background.

Locomotive Signal Light Patent Model, 1871

A black lacquered metal lantern-style signal housing with gilt linework, a domed hood, and a round glass face fitted with a brass numbered bar and rod. A red floral motif decorates the side panel, set against a blue backdrop. The compact model is displayed as a studio object.

Artist: Unknown
Date: 1871
Medium: iron, tinned sheet (lantern housing; lamp body; burner tube material) paint (exterior decoration material) glass (face plate material) brass
Source: Smithsonian (National Museum of American History)
Size: 2100 × 2898 px

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Public domain · Smithsonian (National Museum of American History) releases this image under CC0 (latest date 1871).
Rights checked 2026-11-05 · tier A · as stated by the source: CC0 (Smithsonian Open Access)

Credit (appreciated, not required for public-domain works): Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of American History

19th century 1870s 1871 brass museum object patent model